River, stream, or creek camping in Maine with swimming
With rocky shores, sandy beaches, and forested mountains, Vacationland is made for campers.
95% (2931 reviews)
- Maine
95% (2931 reviews)
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12 top river, stream, or creek campgrounds in Maine with swimming
96%
(160)
The Howling Woods
2 sites · Tents16 acres · Tremont, ME
A wooded campsite surrounded by moss and Cedars. A small duck pond just 100 feet away. Acadia trails, swim spots and boat launches as close as 2 miles from property. Bar Harbor and Acadia 20-30 minute drive.
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$45
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100%
(989)
Slippery Rock Trails LLC
6 sites · Lodging, Tents400 acres · Greene, ME
Forty five years ago, our family started assembling 400 acres of woods and fields on the banks of the beautiful Androscoggin River. We enjoy actively managing the property for wildlife habitat and tree growth. The diverse landscape includes over 1/2 a mile of river frontage, a 10 acre wildlife pond, rolling hills in the meadows and steep forested terrain with more than 10 miles of multi-use trails running throughout. Our lands have long been open to local hikers, bikers and cross country skiers, we are excited to share this beautiful property with a larger community. Scout for wildlife and birds, on our private 400 acres of forests and fields. Tire yourself by hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, or cross country skiing the 10 miles of private trails. Located across the river from Riverlands State Park, just minutes from Lewiston-Auburn, Bates College, local breweries and just 2 1/2 hours from Boston. Wildlife abounds both on the property and across the river at Androscoggin Riverlands State Park.Quite often, a gentle breeze off the water will offer relief from black flies and mosquitoes, but the right bug repellent is recommended especially to fend off those pesky ticks that are so common in Maine.
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$45
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96%
(239)
Howling Goat Farm and Grange
3 sites · RVs, Tents35 acres · Palmyra, ME
Come visit a converted Grange hall that was MOVED to its current location 10 years ago! Nestled on 35 beautiful acres, it gives you the chance to choose meadow or forest camping along with meeting some new animal friends!Learn more about this land:Come join us on Howling Goat Farm where you can pitch a tent on our field site for a front row seat of the night sky and a spectacular view of the Milky Way. OR we have a secluded site in our wooded area that you are more than welcome to stay in for a more private experience! We are a non-conventional camping area where we don't want anyone to think that they are sardines stuffed into a tiny lot. We keep our bookings to a minimum so more often than not you'll have a whole field to yourselves with more privacy than any other campground. We hope you'll join us for a few days of farm life and the simplicity that we can provide. We are within 4 miles of 95 and centrally located between Rangeley, Baxter, Moosehead and Acadia National Park.
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$24
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92%
(462)
Camps of the Pioneers
11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Ellsworth, ME
Our property has a history detailed in the arrowheads and other Wabanaki artifacts found around the property. European settlers have also left clues behind of the shipbuilding industry and 1700's culture.
Experience a bit of natural immersion and enjoy the endless opportunities for outdoor recreation while camping in the northern forests of Downeast Maine! We use our 6 acre property to focus on producing organically grown herbs, fruit, vegetables for local markets. We're finally making available the properties scenic brooks, forests and meadows to folks seeking to experience a truly unforgettable, countryside retreat.
*firewood is available for free on site
We’re just off the beaten path in an agricultural and fishing community on the Union River, 20 minutes drive from Acadia National Park and Mt. Desert Island.
See what our other guests have had to say about their stays-
“It’s an experience I would repeat with pleasure. Difficult to be short about my highlights: hearing the loon at night certainly, waking up with the quarter moon over my head, seeing the progression in changing colors of the leaves,the views from Mount Cadillac, and Beech Wood trail, Jordan Pond and the Bubbles,so many things really.” - Christine from Montpelier, France, Sept 2021.
"We were so at peace when we got here we just spent the rest of the day hanging at the yurt enjoying the peace and quiet today we are heading to the ocean!"- Jody from New Hampshire, July 2021.
"We could not have found a more idyllic place, plus it was our first experience in a yurt. We found your notes about Acadia super helpful and the yurt was just so beautiful and cozy. Having a hot bath and a little fire in the wood stove after a day of biking the Carriage Roads and swimming at Sand Beach could not have been more perfect. So glad we were at the yurt to enjoy the area and Acadia. We had an incredible stay and are hoping to come back next summer."- Jenn & Neil, August 2020.
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$33.75
/ night
94%
(97)
Happy Hippie Lane Maine
10 sites · Lodging, Tents3 acres · Wiscasset, ME
WELCOME to Happy Hippie Lane Maine!
Get your "groove" on or hang loose here on a precious little island with a big bridge just off route one in the heart of Midcoast. Hundreds of guests report the perfect balance of upbeat fun and chill time and call our place and hospitality "magic", "amazing" and "holy guacamole!".
I have a two night minimum but will consider a single night reservation occasionally with a $20 additional fee.
We have been hosting guests for 10 years at our eclectic, nature filled, good vibe overflowing, quirky lodging. Come and expect some interaction with host, to your comfort, and possibly bumping into another guest or two as you are mesmerized by the evening call of the hermit thrush on route to the campfire or spontaneously planned lobster/vegan/other bake in the back yard. Enjoy great conversation at the fire and burn a few marshmallows. Bend your ear for that haunting barred owl or coyote call.
I support your relaxing beverage or two at the fire or around the property but this definitely not a party place.
We will consider your pet with $35 fee and a conversation ahead of time. We have a jack russell and black cat so have to protect their interests and those of other pets and guests coming as well. Your pup must be on leash at all times unless/until we decide they are safe, others are comfortable and that it works for all to have them run free at times. Thanks!
Lounge on stunning porch busy with wildlife, walk or bike a woodsy trail, nod out or challenge your son to a game of tetherball. Just minutes from busy Route One, this lovely island oasis is convenient to local favorites like Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Popham Beach, Reid State Park, the quaint towns of Bath and Damariscotta and all the midcoast has to offer. You can find yoga, pottery, preserves to explore and organic beer on the island as well.
Ask Cary about signing up for a reiki session, foraging/wild edibles walk and nibble, a workshop on kombucha with your own "scobie" to go, arts and crafts to include tea cup bird feeders and solar bird baths, a boardgame, a lead road ride or a mountain bike rental to explore gravel here. Continue the "community story" by adding a line or more, add your touch to the hippie bus with a little paint....so much more.
Cary loves to help you plan your day based on your interests. Ask about lobster or vegan backyard dinners (additional price), her famous blueberry muffins and fresh veggie frittatas at breakfast with enough interest and other "extras" on the property. You can rent a bicycle, enjoy a relaxing, healing Reiki session, or inquire about a workshop on a variety of nature based subjects or an art or craft activity. You will LOVE this spot. See you soon!
Once you have booked, I will want to chat with you about your plans and prospective time of arrival. I do not offer meals on a regular basis, but if there is enough interest I can consider. I accept guests generally between the hours of 4-9 pm but have a fluctuating schedule like most of us. Thanks in advance for your understanding and care.
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$45
/ night
96%
(38)
Watersrock Woods
2 sites · Tents4 acres · Limerick, ME
Watersrock Woods Campsites are private tent and remote camping locations in the beautiful Southern Maine forest. One site is a remote tent site with spots for multiple tents. It has a picnic table and fire pit. The other site is a larger space with a little more privacy and spaces for multiple tents. It has a propane barbecue grill, picnic table, fire pit, hammock, outdoor patio set with umbrella with seating for 6. There are lots of pine trees and both sites are partially surrounded with large 6' natural berms creating additional privacy. The Property is adjacent to a small brook which is great for fishing and relaxing. There are some swimming holes in the Little Ossipee River which is located a short walking distance from the camp site. Very peaceful. Great for camping, fishing, glamping or relaxing! There are also free local public swimming beaches in 10 minutes in any direction, that don't get a lot of traffic.
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$36
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92%
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Continuous Harmony Farm Camp
4 sites · RVs, Tents46 acres · Lincolnville, ME
Continuous Harmony Farm is located on the north side of Camden Hills State Park. When this area was originally settled, the farm was located on the "highway" from Camden to seasonal pastures in Lincolnville. The trails leading to the park still go by the old foundations that dotted the old Government Road from Camden. The farm has 46 acres of flowing pasture, hardwood forest and flower and vegetable gardens. At the heart of the property is a large farm pond that has been used to water livestock for generations. We hope you can visit us soon! Our farm abuts Camden Hills State Park, offering dozens of miles of trails for hiking and biking. Farm activities include looking after our flock of Katahdin sheep, laying hens, bee hives and vegetable and flower gardens. Activities nearby include rock climbing, boating, horseback riding, paddle boarding and swimming.Learn more about this land:Continuous Harmony Farm Campsite is located under a great old white ash tree beside a large farm pond on 46 acres of sheep meadow, forest and fields. Our farm abuts Camden Hills State Park, offering dozens of miles of trails for hiking and biking. Farm activities include looking after our flock of Katahdin sheep, laying hens, bee hives and vegetable and flower gardens. Activities nearby include rock climbing, boating,, horseback riding, paddle boarding and swimming.
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$40
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100%
(18)
Bravenit Camp
2 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Lyman, ME
The camp sits on 50 acres of trails, forests, fields, and more. This special spot is tucked away in southern Maine, and only 25 minutes from Interstate 95. "Rustic" is a good word to describe Bravenit Camp, but it's so much more! Check out the horse barns, the pond, the stream, try fishing in the river (though it is hard to find), or write a poem in the Writers Cottage.
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$65
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97%
(374)
Hole in the Wall Camping
4 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Strong, ME
We purchased this land a few years ago when our neighbors decided to sell. It abuts our property They used it as a place for their family to gather and camp on during Maine wonderful summer season. It is a beautiful, quiet spot with a great view and a small pond. Hipcamp lets us share this spot and helps pay our property taxes.We are located in the western mountains of Maine in a summer community on Porter Lake. There is a beautiful view of New Vineyard mountain from our 3 acre field. We have 2 trailer sites with power and water (non potable) and an out house. The field has several fire pits and soft grassy spaces for pitching tents. The camping area is fairly private from our neighbors along the road. The site has a small private pond surrounded by trees you can sit and relax near. You can (walk/bike/drive) the 1/4 mile down the dirt road to the public beach. The beach has a public dock, boat ramp, swim float, picnic tables and grills. Paddle out to the island and try the rope swing with one of our kayaks or canoes. Be sure to check out the bald eagles that live in the white pine tree just a little farther down the island. You will hear the loons during your stay and possibly see a mother with her babies on her back. There are also ducks and ducklings and geese with gosling paddling about the lake. The state stocks the lake with trout, splake, and salmon if you like to fish. There is plenty to do right here!
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$30
/ night
99%
(136)
Magnificent View Blueberry Hill
1 site · RV, Tent100 acres · Union, ME
Natural wild blueberry field, just as it has been for eons. 270 degree view of hills, fields, lakes and Mountains. Solitude, yet only 15 min.s to Camden and Rockland.
ECOTOURISM - As seen in the May 2021 issue of
MAINE the Magazine!
Camp, Hike, take Photos
and
Pick Wild Maine Blueberries!
Private quiet SINGLE SPOT on a lovely hilltop wild blueberry field with stunning 270 degree views! Solitude without being remote, 2 miles from Rt 17 (past Union Country Club 9 hole
golf course).
3 miles from downtown Union (featuring 3 Convenience stores, 1 Grocery store, 2 Banks with ATMs, 2 Restaurants, Pizza, Gas and a Laundromat)
and only 12 miles to Camden and Rockland. Good Cellular signal.
Good access road for your RV. The amazing views include Owl's Head lighthouse and Matinicus island in the very far distance, sunrise over Ragged Mountain and the Camden hills. To the north the Dixmont, and Bangor areas are visible. Watch the sunset to the west over Sennebec pond and Appleton ridge. To the southwest Mt. Washington may be just visible on a clear day. 75 acres of open fields and woodlands to explore at your leisure.
Among the hidden gems you might find
are a vernal brook, a distant field that is
totally secluded and an oak tree with a heart!
Deer, wild Turkeys, Hawks, Owls and Bald Eagles are frequent visitors.
The small town of Union also hosts the Maine Wild Blueberry Festival and the Maine Antiques Festival. The Lobster Festival is nearby in Rockland every August.
Only one rental allowed at a time - so you get breathtaking beauty all for yourself - and those with you!
Note: Part of the land is a working Wild Blueberry farm and as such, on rare occasions, the quiet is interrupted to care for the crop. Should that take place we will credit you with a free day's stay.
WINTER CAMPING is available by request to experienced winter campers. If you are up to the challenge drop us a line.
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$99
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85%
(13)
Big Moose Inn Cabins & Campground
63 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents34 acres · Millinocket, ME
Big Moose Inn Cabins & CampgroundIrving O. Hunt and his brother Lyman built some rough camps on Millinocket Lake before they became interested in the Nesowadnehunk Stream region. Whether or not their old camps were at the same site as the present camps on Millinocket Lake we do not know.The Millinocket Lake Camps, known today as Big Moose Inn, are located on a narrow spit of land separating Ambejejus Lake and Millinocket Lake. Before a dam controlled Ambajejus’ water level, it was possible to pole up the short stream from Millinocket Lake into Ambejejus.Fred Spencer build the camps, originally named Camp Eureka, in 1899 or 1900 and ran them with his brother. With the founding of Millinocket only a few years earlier and lumbering roads nearing Katahdin, the two lakes became more easily accessible. Camp Eureka was advertised as the only camp reachable by both boat (from Norcross) and road (from Millinocket). In 1905, the rate was $1.50 per day, meals included. Spencer also claimed the lakes had no flies or mosquitoes during spring and summer- a phenomenon caused by the way winds blow across the lakes, which makes it difficult for insects to gain a foothold.The camps’ name changed to Camp Spencer and later to Spencer’s Camps. Around 1929 the lease was transferred to Elmer Woodworth, who lived with his wife on a nearby island while they operated the camps. Elmer, a well-known guide, trapped over the winter, and his wife served as the camp cook. The couple soon renamed the camps Millinocket Lake Camps and Trading Post. They also maintained an outlying camp on Sandy Stream for their guests. In 1941, a major fire broke out in the area. The Woodworths saved the camps by wetting them down, but lost their island home when a stray spark jumped the cove. There is some evidence that, for a short time, a gentleman named Johnny Given either held the lease or managed the camps for the Woodworths. Except for that brief change the Woodworths operated the camps for many years until they passed the lease on to their son Ray, who ran them with his wife Muriel.In 1977, the lease was transferred to Bob and Frederica (“Teddy”) Boynton, who in 1981 sold the trading post to Erwin and Maureen Bacon. The Boyntons retained the sporting camp operation and later added a public restaurant. Teddy renamed the camps Big Moose Inn. Bob and his son Bruce made many renovations to the camps, while Teddy decorated and furnished them. The Boynton Family has remained involved in the success of the inn and restaurant. After Teddy’s death in 1991, management passed to Bruce and his sister Laurie, but Bob and other family members are still very involved.The dam separates the flowages of the two lakes. Millinocket Lake is about eight feet above its original level, and Ambajejus is now some 21 feet above its original level. Today several West Branch rafting companies make the inn their seasonal center of operations.At Big Moose, we bring you a rare blend of friendly service and lovely surroundings that successfully reflects our unique personality. Located on Millinocket Lake, Big Moose is the closest full service accommodations to Baxter State Park. Our central Katahdin Region lodging offers easy access to many of Baxter State Park's magnificent natural resources.Our Katahdin lodging packages consist of inn rooms, suites, lakefront and trailside cabins, and campgrounds. Fredericka's restaurant offers casual fine dining between two lakes while the Loose Moose Bar & Grille offers comfort food after a long day outdoors.-Dine in our newly remodeled dining room with friends and family. Our authentic solid oak tables and chairs make this room adaptable to any decor you choose when hosting weddings, reunions or anniversaries. A great place for corporate retreats and workshops. Our new side dining room offers intimacy and privacy for gatherings of 25 or less. Call to reserve it for your special celebration.•Big Moose Vacation Packages-Big Moose selects the best businesses to deliver a complete vacation package to you. We team with local and regional experts to offer guided tours, photography workshops, guided fishing trips and more. Choose one of the complete all inclusive packages from the list on the left and you will be assured a wilderness outdoor vacation that you won't soon forget. Want a weekend trip to Maine all your own, checkout the "Guides & Tours" section under Maine Adventures. Find great outdoor activities to do or take a guided excursion from one of the many knowledgeable tour guides who cater to Big Moose guests. The Big Moose Inn's location affords our guest many opportunities to enjoy the Maine outdoors. It is only a short distance from Baxter State Park and the North Maine Woods, where our guests enjoy the recreational adventures they come to the Katahdin region for. Explore the area by yourself or join a guided tour looking for wildlife or hike into remote wilderness areas with a Registered Maine Guide. The Penobscot River offers many recreational opportunities from fishing, canoeing to whitewater rafting.Our PoliciesPets: Dogs are welcome in our campground. However, we do not have any pet-friendly cabins. Pets are not permitted inside the Inn. Please follow these rules and expectations:• Pet must be on a leash at all times• Pet must not be left unattended because of the summer heat, barking, and possible damage.• Must pick up after your pet.If you would rather board your pet contact Katahdin Kritters Pet Resort - 207-746-8040Tax: All rates are subject to 9% Maine sales tax.PLEASE NO SMOKING IN CABINS OR INN ROOMS/SUITES, FINES MAY OCCUR.Cancellations: As an independently owned and operated inn, we do not overbook our accommodations - each reservation is made for a specfic date, accomdation, number of guests and we are expecting you! Cancellations and changes made with short notice impact us significally. We do sympathize, however, we must maintain our business policy due to limited season and accommodation demands.Prior to 30 days of arrival, full refund; cancellation within 30 days, no refund/forfeiture of deposit. No adjustments or refunds for early departures. Please note: There are no exceptions to our cancellation policy whether it be for reasons of sickness, family emergency or weather. Check-in: 4pm-10pmCheck-out: 10am.Cabin guests must bring their own towels, or they may call in advance to arrange for towels to be rented.
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$30
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99%
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Magical Mountain River retreat
5 sites · RVs, Tents500 acres · Rumford, ME
Scars in the polished granite streambed tell the story of saw mills from the 19th century. Not far from the foundation of one of the more established farmsteads of the era, this campsite is tucked away from the road down by the rushing Bull Branch of the Sunday River. Whether you bake on the rocks after dipping, or toss a fly in a quiet pool, the river will soothe your soul.
Explore endless mountains streams, trails to the Appalachian Trail, and remote dirt roads in the heart of the Mahoosucs from your secluded walk-in low impact tent site with privy. Deep swimming holes and trout fishing beckon. There are three sites: #1: Riverside (more secluded),#2:Hillside(closest to the parking), and #3: Fireside. The hillside and fireside sites can combine for a group although are at a short distance from each other. If weather conditions permit, all campers can share the fire circle and table. The Riverside has its own table.
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$45
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River, stream, or creek camping in Maine with swimming guide
Overview
There's much more to Maine than lighthouses, lobster shacks, and sandy beaches. The northernmost state in New England packs in surprising variety, from the rocky islands and seaside resorts of the Atlantic shore to the forests and mountains of the Appalachian Mountains. Campers can take their pick of 32 state parks and one epic national park, filled with lakes, woodlands, and beaches to hike, bike, climb, and kayak. "Vacationland" pulls in the summer crowds, especially along the coast, but our pick is fall, when the northern highlands are ablaze with foliage.
Where to go
Aroostook & the Highlands
Maine’s mountainous north is the stuff that hiker’s bucket lists are made of. The sprawling wilderness of Baxter State Park is the starting point of the epic Appalachian Trail and home to Maine’s highest peak—the 5,267-foot Mount Katahdin. Miles of hiking trails run through the highlands, along with some of the state’s best snowmobiling and cross-country skiing trails. To get on the water, head to Moosehead Lake, or try paddling and backcountry tent camping along the Allagash Wilderness Waterway.
Maine Lakes & Mountains
The hills and valleys of western Maine are peppered with high peaks and hundreds of glacial lakes, affording plenty of opportunities for a back-to-nature camping experience. Drive the High Peaks Scenic Byway for some of the most spectacular views, enjoy family camping at Sebago Lake State Park, or check into an RV park near Bethel, Naples, or Lewiston. In winter, rent a cozy ski chalet and hit the ski resorts of Sugar Loaf, Shawnee Peak, and Sunday River.
Southern Maine Coast
When summer temperatures soar, some of the most popular Maine campgrounds and beaches are found along the southwest shore. Head to the beach towns of Kennebunkport, Freeport, and Portland for old-fashioned seaside fun; go boating or kayaking around Casco Bay; then snag an RV site or cabin rental at the oceanfront campground in Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park.
Downeast & Acadia
Maine’s only national park, Acadia National Park, is the headline act of DownEast, the state’s rugged and rocky southeastern coast. Opt to stay on the mainland at Bar Harbor and head over to admire the park’s historic lighthouses and ocean views, or choose from multiple camping areas on the islands. Further north, the 15 coastal parklands of Cobscook Shores have picnic tables, boat launches, and backcountry camping sites.
Popular Maine trips
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